Red Bridge and the Greenway

The Red Bridge Tortosa is one of the city's most recognisable landmarks and the gateway to the Val de Zafán Greenway, combining industrial heritage, the River Ebro and some of the most attractive cycling and walking routes in the Terres de l'Ebre. Originally built as a railway bridge, it has been transformed into a pedestrian and cycling crossing, offering a unique way to experience Tortosa and its surroundings.

Constructed between 1865 and 1868, the bridge was the first permanent structure to cross the River Ebro at Tortosa. Until then, travellers relied mainly on the city's historic pontoon bridge. Its completion made it possible to establish a continuous railway connection between Barcelona and Valencia, becoming one of the most significant engineering achievements of its time.

Stretching for more than 220 metres, the bridge retains the industrial character of the original railway infrastructure. Its metal deck and supporting piers were rebuilt between 1911 and 1913. During the Spanish Civil War, the bridge was heavily damaged after being blown up, but it was later reconstructed and remained in railway use until the line closed in 1996.

Between 2011 and 2013, the bridge was restored and adapted for pedestrians and cyclists. It was then painted its distinctive red colour, giving rise to the name by which it is known today. Crossing the bridge offers excellent views of the River Ebro, Teodor Gonzàlez Municipal Park, Tortosa's riverside skyline and the city's historic monuments.

The Red Bridge Tortosa also marks the beginning of the Val de Zafán Greenway, a route following the former railway line towards the inland regions as far as Alcañiz and La Puebla de Híjar. With almost no significant gradients, it is ideal for walking, cycling or horse riding through tunnels, viaducts, olive groves, vineyards, Mediterranean woodland and the spectacular landscapes of the Canaletes valley.

From Tortosa, visitors can also follow the Greenway towards La Ràpita. This section passes through orchards, irrigated farmland, riverside woodland and rice fields before reaching the landscapes of the Ebro Delta and the Bay of Els Alfacs. It offers an excellent opportunity to continue from the city's urban heritage to the natural environments that border the Mediterranean.

Exploring the Red Bridge Tortosa and its Greenway is an ideal way to combine outdoor activity, industrial heritage and nature, whether enjoying a short riverside walk or embarking on a longer journey through the landscapes of the Terres de l'Ebre.